Finding the right apartment in Brussels is exciting, but before you can sign the lease, you’ll need to provide the right paperwork. Landlords and agencies in Belgium usually require several documents to confirm your identity, financial stability, and legal residence.

If you don’t prepare in advance, you may lose the apartment to another applicant. This guide explains the essential Brussels rental documents you’ll need and answers common questions for international students, professionals, and expats.

1. Essential Rental Documents in Brussels

1. ID or Passport

   • EU citizens: A valid national ID card is sufficient.

   • Non-EU citizens: A valid passport is required, often with a visa or residence permit attached.

2. Residence Permit (if applicable)

   • Long-term tenants who are not EU citizens will usually need to show a residence card or proof of residence application.

3. Employment Contract or University Admission Letter

   • Employees: Most landlords request a work contract, ideally a permanent (CDI) or long-term contract.

   • Students: An acceptance letter or enrollment certificate. In many cases, a guarantor is also required.

4. Proof of Income

   • Recent payslips (usually from the last three months).

   • Bank statements to show stable income or savings.

   • If your income is insufficient, a guarantor is often necessary.

5. Guarantor Documents (if required)

   • The guarantor’s ID, proof of income, or property ownership documents.

   • Commonly requested for students and newcomers without a stable income.

6. Deposit Account Proof

   • Rental deposits in Belgium (usually 2–3 months’ rent) must be placed in a blocked bank account (compte bloqué). Some landlords will ask for proof that you’ve opened this account before signing.

7. Rental Application Form

   • Provided by the landlord or agency, containing your personal details, job information, and references.

2. Important Things to Keep in Mind

• Language barrier: Most rental contracts are written in French or Dutch. Consider asking for assistance if you don’t speak these languages.

• Copies ready: Keep both printed and digital copies of all your documents for quick submission.

• Timing matters: The Brussels rental market is competitive. Having documents prepared will help you secure an apartment faster.

• Guarantors matter: For students and newcomers, a guarantor’s documents can make or break the rental application.

3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do students in Brussels need a guarantor?
Yes, most students will need a guarantor. Landlords often request the guarantor’s ID and proof of income, especially if the student has no independent income.

2. Are short-term rentals less strict?
Yes. For stays under 3 months, landlords may only ask for a passport and deposit. However, professional agencies may still require proof of income or a guarantor.

3. Is there a difference between Belgian and foreign tenants?
Yes. Belgian citizens usually just need an ID and proof of income, while foreigners may also need a residence permit and guarantor.

4. What if I don’t have a guarantor?
Some landlords may accept a larger deposit or proof of significant savings in your bank account. However, this is less common.

5. How is the rental deposit paid in Brussels?
By law, the deposit must be placed in a blocked bank account under both the tenant’s and landlord’s names. It cannot go directly to the landlord’s personal account.

6. Do I need tenant insurance?
Yes, most landlords require tenant insurance (assurance locative) before handing over the keys.

Final Thoughts

To summarize, the main Brussels rental documents you’ll need are: ID/passport, residence permit, employment contract or admission letter, proof of income, guarantor documents (if needed), proof of deposit account, and the rental application form.

By preparing these in advance, you’ll increase your chances of securing your preferred apartment quickly and avoid unnecessary stress.